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Our Belief

    Playing orchestral music should not be limited to an incidental pursuit of the privileged few. It should be placed in the context that has shown great value to the public and rhythm of our lives. Music education enhances intellectual development and enriches the academic environment for children of all ages. Every child should study music as part of the regular school day.
Practice Partners Program (as of 11/26/02)
    It is hoped that the Practice Partners can provide convenient and inexpensive support for our young students who do not yet study privately and who feel the need for a little encouragement between the lessons they receive at school.

    The Practice Partners should not be assigning new material, just helping students with what they are assigned to practice. The more advanced students need to have good playing and communication skills and enjoy working with younger students.

    They will assist in preparing lesson book assignments and concert music, as well as offer tips to improve playing posture, hand position, and other technical skills.

    For this service, a small fee in the neighborhood of $6 to $8 per half hour may be charged. The time, location and fee are to be agreed between the partners.

    Below is a list of students who have volunteered to be "Practice Partners" with our elementary and junior high students:

    Naperville North High School:

    Violin:

    Viola:

    Violoncello:

    String Double Bass:

    (Write to webmaster - by clicking bottom right - for recommendations)

    Naperville Central High School:

    Violin:

    Viola:

    Violoncello:

    String Double Bass:

Practice Points

    Posture

  • Standing or sitting up straight
  • Left foot forward for balance
  • Hold instrument up correctly
  • Music should be placed on a music stand

    Left Hand

  • Umbrella Hand (curved fingers)
  • Fingers on tapes
  • Wrist back (violin/viola)
  • Elbow up (cello/bass)
  • Violin/viola elbow tucked under instrument

    Right Hand & Arm

  • Relaxed bow hold
  • Curved thumb on bow
  • All fingers curved over bow stick
  • Flexible wrist and elbow

    Bowing (Good Tune)

  • Long, smooth bow strokes
  • Bow should be parallel to bridge
  • Bow should be drawn between bridge and fingerboard

    Practice Expectation

  • At least 5 days a week - 20 to 30 minutes daily for jr. high and elementary students.
  • Short and frequent practice sessions are more productive than fewer longer sessions!


Home Updated: November 3, 2004 webmaster